Mental Health Awareness

Course Overview

Mental illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent in society, with about 1 in 5 Australians likely to develop a mental illness at some point in their lives. However, people with a mental illness are among the most disadvantaged in society because they often confront social stigmas and discrimination as a direct result of their illness.

This course has therefore been designed to increase the learner’s understanding of the different types of mental illnesses, their symptoms and treatment. The course will also provide the learner with tips on how they can assist individuals with mental illness and consequently, break down some of the misconceptions about mental illness.

Key Content

• Definition of ‘mental health’ and ‘mental illness’;
• Causes of mental illness;
• Common myths about mental illnesses;
• Legal responsibilities around mental illnesses;
• Employee responsibilities;
• Common mental illnesses, including:
  • Depression;
  • Anxiety disorders;
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD);
  • Schizophrenia;
  • Bipolar disorder;
  • Eating disorders;
  • Personality disorders;
  • Substance related disorders;
  • Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD);
• Treatment for mental illnesses;
• Risk of harming oneself.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, you should be able to: 

• Define mental health and mental illness;
• Explain how legislation affects how people with mental illnesses should be treated;
• Discuss their responsibilities and those of the organisation in relation to people with mental illnesses; 
• Describe the different types of mental illnesses, including their symptoms;
• Identify the types of treatments available for mental illnesses.